Retire in Lithuania
Last updated on Apr 12, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Lithuania for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. Lithuania also offers retirees a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare and a wide range of leisure activities. The weather in Lithuania is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer, and the mid-teens to the mid-30s Fahrenheit in the winter.
What is it like to retire in Lithuania?
"Retirees in Lithuania and its surroundings can enjoy a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the region. Cultural attractions abound, with many museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. Recreation is plentiful, with plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Nightlife is also available, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. All in all, Lithuania and its surroundings offer retirees a great place to enjoy their retirement," remarked one retiree in Lithuania.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Lithuania?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Lithuania is the language barrier. English is not widely spoken in Lithuania, so it can be difficult for retirees to communicate with locals and access services. Additionally, the cost of living in Lithuania is relatively high, which can be a challenge for retirees on a fixed income. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Lithuania is not as well-developed as in other countries, so retirees may have difficulty accessing the medical care they need. Finally, the cultural differences between Lithuania and other countries can be a challenge for retirees who are used to a different way of life," commented one retiree living in Lithuania.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Lithuania?
"Retiring in Lithuania offers a number of rewarding aspects. One of the most attractive benefits is the low cost of living, which allows retirees to stretch their pension further. Lithuania also offers a wide range of cultural activities, from its vibrant cities to its picturesque countryside. The country is also known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and enjoy retirement. Additionally, Lithuania has a well-developed healthcare system, providing retirees with access to quality medical care. Finally, the country's location in the heart of Europe makes it easy to explore the rest of the continent," said one retiree in living in Lithuania.
What are healthcare services like in Lithuania?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Lithuania. They wrote:
"Lithuania has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The country has a network of public hospitals and clinics, as well as private medical facilities. Primary care is provided by family doctors, while specialized care is available at hospitals and clinics. Lithuania also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the National Cancer Institute and the National Cardiology Institute. The country also has a number of health insurance plans that cover a variety of medical services. In addition, Lithuania has a number of health promotion and disease prevention programs, such as the National Health Promotion Program and the National Immunization Program," said a retiree who moved to Lithuania.
How do I meet people in Lithuania?
When we asked people living in Lithuania about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Lithuania often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals alike," said one retiree in Lithuania.
What is life like in Lithuania?
When we asked people living in Lithuania what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"This is a very typical Lithuanian city. There is a very small international population. Most people have lived in this city all of their lives and can recognize a lot of their friends by simply walking down the street," said one retiree in Alytus.
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Lithuania is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of activities to enjoy, from exploring the country's many historical sites to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. Additionally, Lithuania has a strong digital infrastructure, making it an ideal place for digital nomads to work remotely," commented one retiree living in Lithuania.
What do I need to know before retiring in Lithuania?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Lithuania, they said:
"Living in Alytus is very cheap. A simple apartment will run you a fraction of what it does in other European countries. For a foreigner first moving to Alytus will cause great culture shock but after some getting used to you will really love the small details that makes this city great," explained a retiree in Alytus.
"Expats considering retiring in Lithuania should be aware that the country is part of the Schengen Area, meaning that a valid visa is required for stays of more than 90 days. Expats should also be aware that the official language of Lithuania is Lithuanian, although English is widely spoken in the larger cities. It is also important to note that the cost of living in Lithuania is generally lower than in other European countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Lithuania is generally of a high standard, although private healthcare is also available. Finally, expats should be aware that the climate in Lithuania is generally cold and wet, with temperatures rarely rising above 20°C in the summer months," explained one retiree living in Lithuania.
What type of recreational activities are there in Lithuania?
"In Lithuania, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and forests. There are also many outdoor activities available, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of museums, galleries, and theatres to explore. Additionally, Lithuania is home to a number of sports facilities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and football fields. Finally, there are a variety of cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local culture," remarked one retiree in Lithuania.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Lithuania?
"People living in Lithuania typically buy groceries from supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at department stores, malls, and specialty shops. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Lithuania," said one member in Lithuania.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Lithuania?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Lithuania?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Lithuania?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Lithuania accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Lithuania like?
- Is the cost of living in Lithuania high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Lithuania?
- What are healthcare services like in Lithuania?
- Is the cost of living in Lithuania high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Lithuania?
- What is the weather like in Lithuania?
- Are there good restaurants in Lithuania?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Lithuania?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Lithuania?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Lithuania?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Lithuania?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Lithuania?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?